Part 2: In which we conquer our first Summer
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From the journal of Gnorm, the halfling mayor of Mastertea, found at the ruins of the settlement:
11th Hematite, 551
Had to slaughter our pack beetle today for its meat, as we were running low on food. We didn't have much use for the beast anyway.
14th Hematite, 551
I've designated some areas to be dug underground for some more permanent stockpiles; these shall replace the small ones on the surface.
7th Malachite, 551
Due to the dangerous nature of any frontier, I have begun construction of a personal tomb for myself, should the worst befall me.
If I am to die, I must be buried within a complex, maze like cavern, where no one can find my body.
My men say that they have seen strange new halflings in the distance.
8th Malachite, 551
Migrants! here! already! I'm not sure how to react to the recent migration. I had no idea that word would spread of a settlement this quickly. Nevertheless, I must be professional in an event such as this. The migrants are as follows:
1 Presser
1 Wood Burner
1 Stonecrafter
1 Blacksmith
2 Aphidida Nymphs (I wonder how much meat are on them)
1 Woodcrafter
1 Potter
Our total population is now 13 halflings. Some of the migrants will not be able to make use of their current professions, though.
19th Malachite, 551
Ordered both the nymphs to be slaughtered. Their meat is necessary for the survival of this frontier.
Work on my tomb is progressing steadily.
14th Galena, 551
At last we have the beginning of an actual militia to defend this town (though I use the term loosely) from hostiles. I hope that we shall not have to make use of our captain for a while.
17th Galena, 551
At last! the diplomat and the merchant caravan have come! I have ordered immediate preparations to trade our goods for theirs.
19th Galena, 551
The diplomat began his meeting, and desired to know what we require to survive. I gave him the basic list: food, seeds, weapons, wood, etcetera. In return, he told me that there was a shortage of certain items in the capital, and that they would pay top dollar for them next year.
I'm not sure what use figurines have, but I shan't question it. After our discussion, the diplomat wished me luck and left.
28th Galena, 551
This shall be my last entry this season. The work on the first real building in our village (the dining hall) is slowly progressing. It shall hopefully be done early this Autumn.
We are ready to trade with the merchants, a task that I shall undertake shortly.
My tomb is officially finished! It contains eight engravings around my coffin, mainly of plants, the symbol of "The Mighty Halflings" (two stinkweed), and the symbol of our parent civilization (four pumpkins). In addition, two statues by me (one of an historical hound-slaying; another of two pack beetles) are featured. Finally, there is a stone coffer for my personal possessions.
May the coming season usher in new progress to our evolving frontier!